When it comes to our feline friends, many of us are fascinated by the diversity of breeds and types that exist around the world. From the majestic Maine Coon to the sleek Siamese, each breed has its unique characteristics, temperament, and appearance. But have you ever wondered how many types of cats are there in the world? Understanding the different types of cats can help us appreciate their individuality, learn about their specific needs, and make informed decisions when bringing a new furry friend into our lives.
Overview of Feline Diversity
The world of domesticated cats is vast and varied, with over 70 recognized breeds and countless variations within each breed. From the tiny Singapura to the massive Ragdoll, cats come in a stunning range of sizes, coat lengths, colors, and patterns. But what exactly defines a “type” of cat, and how do we categorize them?
What Constitutes a “Type” of Cat?
In the world of feline classification, a “type” of cat refers to a specific breed or group of breeds that share distinct physical and behavioral characteristics. These characteristics can include factors such as body size, coat length and texture, ear shape, tail length, and even personality traits. By understanding the different types of cats, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of our feline companions.
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the different types of cats, exploring their unique features, characteristics, and personalities. Whether you’re a seasoned cat enthusiast or just starting your feline journey, this guide is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the amazing world of cats.
How Many Types of Cats Are in the World?
Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world, and with over 70 recognized breeds, it’s no wonder why. From the tiny Singapura to the massive Maine Coon, cats come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and personalities. But have you ever wondered, how many types of cats are there in the world?
The Feline Family Tree
To understand the different types of cats, it’s essential to understand the feline family tree. The domestic cat, also known as Felis catus, is a member of the Felidae family, which includes all species of cats, big and small. The Felidae family is divided into two main categories: big cats and small cats.
Big Cats
Big cats are the larger, wild species of cats that are found in various parts of the world. These include:
- Lions (Panthera leo)
- Tigers (Panthera tigris)
- Leopards (Panthera pardus)
- Jaguars (Panthera onca)
- Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus)
- Snow leopards (Panthera uncia)
Small Cats
Small cats, on the other hand, are the smaller, wild species of cats that are found in various parts of the world. These include: (See Also: Why Are Cats Irises So Big)
- Ocelots (Leopardus pardalis)
- Serval (Leptailurus serval)
- Caracal (Caracal caracal)
- African wildcat (Felis silvestris)
- European wildcat (Felis silvestris)
- Asian leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis)
- Fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)
Domestic Cat Breeds
Now, let’s talk about domestic cat breeds. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes over 70 breeds of domestic cats, which are divided into several categories:
Longhaired Breeds
Longhaired breeds are known for their beautiful, flowing coats. These include:
- Persian
- Maine Coon
- Ragdoll
- British Longhair
- Norwegian Forest Cat
Shorthaired Breeds
Shorthaired breeds are known for their short, smooth coats. These include:
- Siamese
- Abyssinian
- Oriental Shorthair
- Domestic Shorthair
- British Shorthair
Semi-Longhaired Breeds
Semi-longhaired breeds have a coat that falls somewhere in between longhaired and shorthaired breeds. These include:
- Balinese
- Javanese
- Oriental Longhair
- Siberian
- Nebelung
Hairless Breeds
Hairless breeds are known for their lack of fur or very little fur. These include:
- Sphynx
- Peterbald
- Donskoy
- Korat
- Devon Rex
Hybrid Breeds
Hybrid breeds are the result of crossing two purebred breeds. These include: (See Also: How To Draw Cartoon Cats)
- Bengal (cross between a domestic cat and an Asian leopard cat)
- Savannah (cross between a domestic cat and a serval)
- Chausie (cross between a domestic cat and a jungle cat)
- Ashera (cross between a domestic cat and an African wildcat)
- Burmese (cross between a domestic cat and a Burmese cat)
Unrecognized Breeds
There are many breeds of domestic cats that are not recognized by major cat registries such as TICA or the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). These include:
- American Curl
- American Wirehair
- Kurilian Bobtail
- Ojos Azules
- Pixie-bob
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are over 70 recognized breeds of domestic cats, and many more that are not recognized by major cat registries. From the tiny Singapura to the massive Maine Coon, cats come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and personalities. Whether you prefer a longhaired breed or a hairless breed, there’s a type of cat out there for everyone.
So, how many types of cats are there in the world? The answer is, there are many! With over 70 recognized breeds and many more hybrids and unrecognized breeds, the possibilities are endless.
Recap
In this article, we discussed the different types of cats in the world, including:
- Big cats (wild species)
- Small cats (wild species)
- Domestic cat breeds (longhaired, shorthaired, semi-longhaired, and hairless)
- Hybrid breeds (cross between two purebred breeds)
- Unrecognized breeds (breeds not recognized by major cat registries)
We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of the many different types of cats that exist in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cat Breeds
What is the exact number of recognized cat breeds?
According to the International Cat Association (TICA), there are currently 73 recognized cat breeds. However, this number may vary depending on the cat association or registry, as some may recognize more breeds than others.
What are the main categories of domesticated cat breeds?
Domesticated cat breeds can be broadly categorized into two main groups: longhaired and shorthaired. Within these categories, breeds can be further divided into subcategories based on their body type, coat length, and other characteristics. (See Also: How To Keep Cats Off Your Bed)
Are all domesticated cat breeds descended from the same ancestor?
Yes, all domesticated cat breeds are believed to have descended from the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica). Over time, humans selectively bred these wildcats for desirable traits, leading to the development of the many different breeds we see today.
What is the rarest cat breed in the world?
The Ashera is considered one of the rarest and most exotic cat breeds in the world. It is a hybrid breed, resulting from the cross between an African Serval and an Asian Leopard Cat. Due to the difficulty of breeding these cats, they are extremely rare and highly sought after.
How do cat registries determine the authenticity of a breed?
Cat registries, such as TICA or the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), have strict breed standards and guidelines that breeders must follow to ensure the authenticity of a breed. These standards include specific characteristics, such as coat length, color, and body type, as well as genetic testing to verify the breed’s pedigree.
